Eastman v. Ithaca v. Fredonia?

pbesthall
Sat, 02 Apr 2011 14:03:08 +0000

I’ve been accepted as a Trombone/ Euphonium major in Music Education to Ithaca College, SUNY Fredonia, Penn State, McGill, and Eastman. McGill and Penn State have been essentially ruled out because of money, leaving the three New York schools.

Considering the option that I could attend SUNY Fredonia for very close to zero cost, I’m having a hard time making a decision. Eastman’s reputation would undoubtedly be a huge factor for grad school and the other schools can’t compare to its conducting and music ed programs.

However, it’s in the City of Rochester, and I would be surrounded by musicians 24/7 (I’m sure most of you are aware that being surrounded by crazy musicians is a blessing and a curse at the same time). Another question I’m struggling with is if I’m prepared for a conservatory lifestyle in my undergraduate experience. I am not overly concerned about this, because I would like to be pushed as a musician; it’s just a little scary.

Ithaca is not as strong, program-wise, in all areas that are important to me. But, I would have the opportunity to play in major ensembles on both instruments (unlike Eastman, where I would technically be a euphonium major), and would be in what I view as a nicer environment.

Like I said, Fredonia would be virtually free. All considered, Eastman would cost $18,000 a year, and Ithaca $13,000. Thanks for your help in advance, and if you have any questions, please ask.